Back to Gardening Chapter 4, Design - Part C: Microclimates (cont.)

In this section of Chapter 4 I explain why it is important to think about natural and artificial microclimates when designing a gardening space.

Back to Gardening Chapter 4, Design - Part C: Microclimates (cont.)

Earlier in this part of the chapter I defined a microclimate as any given space where the climate conditions (temperature, humidity, wind, etc.) are different from the larger area in which that space is located. I then discussed what I call “natural microclimates” - which, loosely defined, are accidental microclimates that result from objects that hold heat, make shade, or block wind. By contrast, an “artificial microclimate” is a more deliberate structure, designed to do one of more of those things, depending on desired growing conditions.

In colder climates artificial microclimates are typically used to extend the growing season so that things can be started earlier in spring, and grown later into the fall. They can also be used to over-winter perennials that are not quite tough enough for the winter months, and they can be used to even grow some things in winter if they get enough sun and are well-insulated. In hot climates where too much heat can actually be a problem, microclimates are used to prevent over-heating, which can negatively affect photosynthesis and hinder plant growth.

The simplest example of an artificial microclimate is a greenhouse, which is a transparent “house” made of some material that allows sunlight in, while simultaneously insulating the interior to some degree, such that heat can be retained. The “shade-house” is used in hot climates to achieve the opposite effect, using opaque material that blocks some proportion of the sunlight.

Greenhouse

Greenhouses are amazing for those with the resources to build and maintain them. There are many designs and options for building greenhouses, and to run through them all would fill a book - so instead here’s a great link with guidelines and many design options.